§ 4. Mr. A. Evansasked the Minister of Fuel and Power when he expects to announce his decision as to the making of regulations under the Electricity Act, 1947, to ensure for pensioners of electricity undertakings, formerly owned by local authorities, the benefits of the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1952.
§ 17. Mr. P. Robertsasked the Minister of Fuel and Power to take steps to ensure that the treatment being given to ex-municipal pensioners from the gas industry in relation to the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1952, also applies to ex-municipal pensioners from the electricity industry.
§ Mr. Geoffrey LloydYes, Sir. I have carefully considered the position of those pensioners from the electricity industry who were formerly employed by local authorities, and I shall be prepared to agree to amendments to their pension schemes so as to give them benefits comparable to those given under the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1952.
§ Mr. EvansWhile thanking the Minister for his reply, may I ask him if he will expedite this matter, because these pensioners are feeling hardships through the prolonged delay?
§ Mr. LloydYes, Sir; I have considered that point. When it is made, the scheme will apply retrospectively to 1st October, which was the date when the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1952, came into operation.
§ Mr. RobertsIs the Minister aware that this announcement will be received with very great satisfaction by all concerned in the Midlands?
§ Sir A. GridleyWill the same benefits be conferred on former employees of the companies, as well as of the local authorities?
§ Mr. LloydI am afraid that is not so. My answer applies to those who could have received the benefits of the Pensions (Increase) Act, 1952.